Chew Chew Train Child's Feeding Set (Nursery Ware)
Other: Child's Dining Accessory / Nursery Ware · Mid-Century Novelty (Late 1940s-1950s) · Likely manufactured by a specialty plastics firm like Banner Plastics or similar Mid-Century toy/nursery companies
Type
Other: Child's Dining Accessory / Nursery Ware
Style Period
Mid-Century Novelty (Late 1940s-1950s)
Material
Molded Thermoplastic (likely Polystyrene or early Hard Plastic)
Age Estimate
Circa 1948-1955
Dimensions
Height: 4-5", Width: 12-14", Depth: 3.5"; compact for high-chair or tabletop use
Origin
USA; typical of post-WWII American suburban nursery products
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by a specialty plastics firm like Banner Plastics or similar Mid-Century toy/nursery companies
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD (Collector value as vintage nursery memorabilia)
Description
A whimsical Mid-Century child's feeding dish shaped like a steam locomotive. The piece features a blue engine body with a divided cream tray that fits into the rear car, intended to encourage children to eat by making mealtime interactive and fun.
Key Features
Raised 'CHEW CHEW TRAIN' lettering on the side, numbered engine '258', removable two-compartment tray, and streamline locomotive styling.
Color & Finish
Pastel baby blue base with a cream/off-white removable insert; matte to semi-gloss finish
Construction Method
Industrial injection molding; two-piece assembly with nested removable tray
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Fixed molded assembly; snap-fit or adhesive bonding of body components; industrially mass-produced
Wood Grain & Species
N/A (Synthetic polymer material)
Surface Treatment
Molded-in color; raised relief lettering and steam engine wheel details
Upholstery Details
N/A (Non-upholstered plastic item)
Hardware & Fittings
Integrated plastic wheels (non-moving) and molded text 'CHEW CHEW TRAIN' and '258'
Origin & Provenance
USA; typical of post-WWII American suburban nursery products
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; visible surface scuffing, minor staining in the tray, and typical age-related oxidation of the plastic polymer.
Interesting Facts
The 'Chew Chew' name is a pun on 'choo-choo,' a popular marketing trope for children's feeding products in the 1950s to simplify transition to solid foods.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war 'Baby Boom' era's focus on child-centric design and the rapid adoption of plastics in domestic life.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with ceramic 'Humphrey the Engine' sets or later 1970s Fisher-Price derivatives which used different materials.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only with mild soap; avoid high-heat dishwashers which can warp early thermoplastics; protect from UV light to prevent brittleness.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD (Collector value as vintage nursery memorabilia)
Sustainability Notes
Low sustainability; early non-recyclable petroleum-based plastic, though its longevity as a collectible prevents it from entering the waste stream.